Dominica

Dominica Chronicles: A Love Story Unfolds on ‘Nature Island’

Heading out on our adventure to Dominica marked the beginning of something extraordinary for Dave and me. A destination we'd never heard of, Dominica turned out to be the backdrop for our love story and adventurous spirit as a couple!

WHY We WENT

We were looking for an adventure that was unique. Dominica, a name mentioned by someone in passing, caught our attention because it promised mountains for Dave's adventurous spirit and beaches for mine.

HOW LONG We STAYED

We stayed for two weeks from May to June 2010. 

WHO WENT

Dave and Ana, young and in love. 

WHERE We WENT

We pretty much covered the entire island in one big loop. We stayed in Calibishie, Portsmouth, Roseau and in the Central Forest. 

HOW We Did Dominica

This adventure turned out to be our least planned trip, and it was serendipity at its best. Booking only the first two nights, we let the island and its warm-hearted locals guide us. From rides on the back of pick-up trucks to accepting offers from strangers, changing plans on a whim, sleeping in a treehouse, camping in the jungle, indulging in local cuisine, and sipping on what they called ganja rum (a treat apparently reserved for Canadians only) - every moment felt like fate. 

See, this trip set the standard so high that returning to Dominica feels impossible - I am so fearful that it might not live up to the magic of our first visit. 

Time change

With a one-hour time difference, adjusting to the island's rhythm was a breeze. 

Transportation

Our modes of transport ranged from cabs to impromptu rides from newfound friends we made under a mango tree. We adjusted plans as the locals suggested, navigated through driving on the right side of the road, and soaked in every bit of the island's charm. 

Accommodations

From small hotels, to a treehouse, to cozy homes, including a stay at a stranger’s aunt's cottage, our accommodations were as diverse as Dominica itself.  

Our days

Each day was a new adventure. From sitting on river patios to learning to scuba dive, knocking mangoes off trees, chasing forest crabs, sleeping in the jungle, climbing Dominica's own "Space Mountain," lounging on secluded beaches, dining at barbershops, to hitching rides from strangers – it was a carefree existence we may never replicate in quite the same way. 

In retrospect, our time in Dominica is really what set the stage for countless more adventures as the TraveLaings - now a team of four!